Author Archives: Vicky

Do you Know the Meaning of these 10 Emojis?

What emojis can reveal about Japanese history, language and culture Quick question: what does this emoji mean? ♨️ As everyone who has been to Japan will know, it’s a hot spring. Even before emojis were created, this symbol was commonly used in Japan on maps and tourist guides to represent the relaxing hot water facilitiesContinueContinue reading “Do you Know the Meaning of these 10 Emojis?”

菖蒲華 (Ayame hana saku) “Irises bloom”

In ancient times Japanese people divided the year into 72 “micro-seasons”. These seasons were based on natural events such as the weather and appearance of various flora and fauna. Last weekend was 菖蒲華, marking period when irises begin to bloom. You can find out more about Japanese micro-seasons here.

結 (musubi) “relationships”

Literally meaning “tying together”, this word can be used to refer to the relationships that tie humans together, in particular romantic relationships. In Japan (as well as China and Korea) lovers who are destined to be together are thought to be joined by the “red thread of fate”. Romantic partners are often depicted with aContinueContinue reading “結 (musubi) “relationships””

結 (musubi) “relationships”

Literally meaning “tying together”, this word can be used to refer to the relationships that tie humans together, in particular romantic relationships. In Japan (as well as China and Korea) lovers who are destined to be together are thought to be joined by the “red thread of fate”. Romantic partners are often depicted with aContinueContinue reading “結 (musubi) “relationships””

龍 (ryū) “dragon”

If you visit a shrine or temple in Japan, look up at the ceiling of the main room. Often there will be a painting of a dragon. One reason is that dragons represent the virtue of courage. Another, more superstitious, reason is that dragons are associated with the element of water, and so are aContinueContinue reading “龍 (ryū) “dragon””

龍 (ryū) “dragon”

If you visit a shrine or temple in Japan, look up at the ceiling of the main room. Often there will be a painting of a dragon. One reason is that dragons represent the virtue of courage. Another, more superstitious, reason is that dragons are associated with the element of water, and so are aContinueContinue reading “龍 (ryū) “dragon””